Journalism

Course Descriptions

JRNL 1503 – Mass Media & Society – 3 credit hoursExamines the role and impact of the media on individuals and society. Topics include the historical development of the mass media, along with media effects, ethics, legal considerations, and the role of journalism in society. Students develop a deeper awareness of the media in their lives and a critical perspective to become more responsible consumers of information. Also listed as COMM 1503. Course rotation: Fall.

JRNL 2153 – Introduction to Photography – 3 credit hoursIntroduces the fundamentals of digital photography in both artistic and media contexts. Through the study of cameras, light, composition, and image manipulation, students learn the processes and aesthetic values needed to produce quality images. A hands-on approach allows students to explore their creativity through a series of projects. Also listed as ART 2153. Course rotation: Fall and spring.

Examination and application of the theories, skills, and techniques used in digital storytelling and interactive media. Through a series of hands-on projects, students explore creative applications of interactive media through the integration of text, photographs, graphics, audio, and video.Also listed as ART 3413. Prerequisite:Junior standing or instructor’s permission. Course rotation: Fall of odd years.

JRNL 4401 – Topics in Journalism – 1 credit hour

Explores a chosen topic related to journalism or the mass media, such as documentaries, technology, economics, ethics, or literary journalism. Prerequisite: JRNL 2403 or instructor’s permission. Course rotation: As needed.

JRNL 4123 – Broadcast Journalism – 3 credit hours

Emphasizes the theories, skills, and techniques used in the wiring, production, and presentation of news in a digital media environment. Topics include broadcast wording style, story structure, podcasting, digital audio and video production, and working as talent in front of a camera. A hands-on approach is stressed, allowing students to explore creativity through a series of projects. Prerequisites: JRNL 2403 or instructor’s permission. Course rotation: Spring of odd years.

Combined with the experiential component of the Media Studies program, the seminar is a capstone course where students design, execute, and present a project appropriate to their emphasis in the Media Studies program. In addition, students create and evaluate a professional portfolio for future employment. Course rotation: Spring.

JRNL PN03 –Journalism Internship – 3 credit hoursStudents gain practical experience in a professional media setting. Internships are arranged by students with the assistance and approval of an internship advisor. Grading: Credit/No Credit. Prerequisite: Junior standing and grades of C or better in twelve hours of JRNL courses. Course rotation: As needed.